A motorcycle is much easier to steal than a car: a few people can load it onto a van in a few minutes. No measure makes theft completely impossible; the aim is to make your motorcycle a target that is hard to steal, takes a long time and attracts attention. A thief will usually pick the easiest one.
1. The logic of layered protection
Instead of a single lock, use layers that complement each other:
- Physical barrier: Locks, an anchor point.
- Deterrence: Alarm, visible lock, cover.
- Tracking: GPS device.
- Proof and records: Photos, chassis number, documents, insurance.
2. Lock types
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Disc lock | Small, light, carried in a pocket. Stops the motorcycle being ridden away. | Does not stop the motorcycle being lifted and carried. If you forget it and move off, it damages the brake disc and fork. |
| Alarmed disc lock | Sounds when tampered with. | Needs battery maintenance, volume varies by model. |
| U-lock | Strong, hard to cut. Can attach the wheel to a fixed point. | Heavy and awkward, and finding a point to attach to is not always easy. |
| Chain lock | The best type for securing the motorcycle to a post, railing or ground ring. | A thick, hardened one is very heavy; a thin chain is easy to cut. |
| Ground anchor | The strongest anchoring together with a chain in a garage or garden. | Needs installing, only useful at a fixed parking spot. |
When using locks
- Use a reminder cable: The coloured coiled cable from the disc lock to the handlebar stops you forgetting the lock and moving off.
- Don't let the chain or U-lock touch the ground. A chain resting on the ground is easier to cut with a cutting tool braced against the floor.
- Pass the lock through the motorcycle's frame or swingarm, not just through the wheel; a wheel can be removed.
- When choosing a lock, look for products that have passed independent security tests and insurance companies' approved lists.
- Using a thick chain and a disc lock together presents the thief with two separate obstacles.
3. Alarm and immobiliser
- Factory immobiliser: On most modern motorcycles the engine will not start without the chip in the key. Even so, it does not stop the motorcycle being carried away.
- Aftermarket alarm: An alarm with motion and tilt sensors sounds when someone tries to lift or push the motorcycle. Have it fitted by a competent electrician; a bad installation drains the battery and causes electrical faults.
- Alarms that send notifications to your phone are especially useful when parked far from home.
- An alarm draws a constant current. On a motorcycle left unused for a long time the battery needs trickle charging. See battery care.
4. GPS tracker
- Devices with their own SIM card that send the location to your phone increase the chance of finding a stolen motorcycle.
- Fit it in a hidden place: The first places a thief looks are under the seat and behind the headlight. Choose a place that is not visible and takes time to remove.
- Battery-connected devices are those with their own backup battery; even if the battery is removed, they keep sending location for a while.
- Factor subscription and SIM fees into the cost before buying. You can use the cost calculator for budget planning.
- Small Bluetooth tags (tracker key fobs) are useful as a backup layer but are no substitute for a real GPS device; they depend on a compatible phone being nearby.
If you see from the tracker that your motorcycle has been stolen, don't go to the location alone. Go to the police or gendarmerie immediately with the location information.
5. Parking habits
- Prefer well-lit, busy places covered by cameras. Dark side streets are a thief's favourite.
- If possible, chain it to a fixed object (a post, an iron railing).
- A motorcycle cover both protects against the weather and hides the model of the motorcycle; the thief does not know what they are dealing with.
- Lock the steering; the steering lock is the most basic measure but not enough on its own.
- If you park in the same place at home every day, a covered car park or garage at night is best. Chaining motorcycles parked as a group to each other is also a deterrent.
- When sharing your motorcycle on social media, watch out for frames showing the plate and the location of your home.
- Never leave the key on the motorcycle, even for a short shop.
6. Records and documents
- Photograph your motorcycle from every angle; document special parts, scratches and accessories.
- Note down the chassis and engine numbers somewhere.
- Putting your own mark in a hidden place (engraving, a UV pen) makes it easier to prove the motorcycle is yours when it is found.
- Rather than leaving the registration document on the motorcycle, carry it with you or keep a digital copy; for the legal requirement to carry it, see the rules page.
- Check whether your kasko policy covers theft and what conditions (lock, covered parking and so on) it depends on. See the insurance and kasko guide.
7. What to do if it is stolen
- Go to the nearest police or gendarmerie unit immediately and provide the chassis number and photos.
- If there is GPS tracking, share the location information.
- If you have kasko, notify the insurance company within the period stated in the policy.
- Keep an eye on local motorcycle groups and second-hand advert sites to see whether the motorcycle or its parts are put up for sale.
The most effective protection is using several measures together: disc lock + chain + hidden GPS + smart parking. Each can be defeated on its own; together they steer the thief to another motorcycle.